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Usability
Terms modified by Usability Selected AbstractsInformation source horizons and source preferences of environmental activists: A social phenomenological approachJOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR INFORMATION SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, Issue 12 2007Reijo Savolainen This study focuses on the ways in which people define their source preferences in the context of seeking orienting information for nonwork purposes. The conceptual framework of the study combines ideas drawn from social phenomenology and information-seeking studies. The study utilizes Alfred Schutz's model describing the ways in which actors structure everyday knowledge into regions of decreasing relevance. It is assumed that this structuring based on the actor's interest at hand is also reflected in the ways in which an actor prefers information sources and channels. The concept of information source horizon is used to elicit articulations of source preferences. The empirical part of the study draws on interviews with 20 individuals active in environmental issues. Printed media (newspapers), the Internet, and broadcast media (radio, television) were preferred in seeking for orienting information. The major source preferences were content of information, and availability and accessibility. Usability of information sources, user characteristics such as media habits, and situational factors were mentioned less frequently as preference criteria. [source] Embedding 3D models of biological specimens in PDF publicationsMICROSCOPY RESEARCH AND TECHNIQUE, Issue 11 2008Bernhard Ruthensteiner Abstract By providing two examples, the option for embedding 3D models in electronic versions of life science publications is presented. These examples, presumably representing the first such models published, are developmental stages of an evertebrate (Patella caerulea, Mollusca) and a vertebrate species (Psetta maxima, Teleostei) obtained from histological section series reconstruction processed with the software package Amira. These surface rendering models are particularly suitable for a PDF file because they can easily be transformed to a file format required and components may be conveniently combined and hierarchically arranged. All methodological steps starting from specimen preparation until embedding of resulting models in PDF files with emphasis on conversion of Amira data to the appropriate 3D file format are explained. Usability of 3D models in PDF documents is exemplified and advantages over 2D illustrations are discussed, including better explanation capabilities for spatial arrangements, higher information contents, and limiting options for disguising results by authors. Possibilities for additional applications reaching far beyond the examples presented are suggested. Problems such as long-term compatibility of file format and hardware plus software, editing and embedding of files, file size and differences in information contents between printed and electronic version will likely be overcome by technical development and increasing tendency toward electronic at the cost of printed publications. Since 3D visualization plays an increasing role in manifold disciplines of science and appropriate tools for the popular PDF format are readily available, we propose routine application of this way of illustration in electronic life science papers. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2008. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Usability of playgrounds for children with different abilitiesOCCUPATIONAL THERAPY INTERNATIONAL, Issue 3 2007Maria Prellwitz Abstract The aim of the present study was to better understand how children with different abilities use playgrounds to engage in creative play and interact socially with their peers. Twenty children aged between 7 and 12 years, with different abilities, participated in interviews. The findings showed that playgrounds served as a reference point for all the children, they challenged a child's physical abilities and provided opportunities for role-playing and social interactions. However, for children with disabilities, playgrounds had limited accessibility, usability and did not support interaction with peers. A methodological limitation of the study was that the interviewer only met the children once. Further research should be carried out to investigate if creating playgrounds according to universal design principles and adapting them to the needs of children with disabilities would improve social interactions and provide more opportunities for play. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Changes in accessibility and usability in housing: an exploration of the housing adaptation processOCCUPATIONAL THERAPY INTERNATIONAL, Issue 1 2005Agneta Fänge Abstract The purpose of a housing adaptation is to enhance daily activities and to improve housing accessibility and usability by removing physical barriers in the home. The aim of this study was to investigate longitudinal changes in housing accessibility among clients receiving grants for housing adaptations. Baseline assessments were administered one month before the housing adaptation, with the first follow-up after two to three months, and the second follow-up after eight to nine months. The Housing Enabler and the Usability in My Home instruments were used to collect data from 131 consecutively enrolled clients living in general housing. Accessibility and usability improved significantly, the number of physical environmental barriers decreased and dependence on mobility devices increased, but at different times along the process. The results indicate the complexity of the housing adaptation process and the need to consider person,environment interactions over time. The methodology seems useful for quality development of assessment, intervention and evaluation processes in housing adaptations performed by occupational therapists. Copyright © 2005 Whurr Publishers Ltd. [source] Evaluation of the Acceptability and Usability of a Decision Support System to Encourage Safe and Effective Use of Opioid Therapy for Chronic, Noncancer Pain by Primary Care ProvidersPAIN MEDICINE, Issue 4 2010Jodie Trafton PhD Abstract Objective., To develop and evaluate a clinical decision support system (CDSS) named Assessment and Treatment in Healthcare: Evidenced-Based Automation (ATHENA)-Opioid Therapy, which encourages safe and effective use of opioid therapy for chronic, noncancer pain. Design., CDSS development and iterative evaluation using the analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation process including simulation-based and in-clinic assessments of usability for providers followed by targeted system revisions. Results., Volunteers provided detailed feedback to guide improvements in the graphical user interface, and content and design changes to increase clinical usefulness, understandability, clinical workflow fit, and ease of completing guideline recommended practices. Revisions based on feedback increased CDSS usability ratings over time. Practice concerns outside the scope of the CDSS were also identified. Conclusions., Usability testing optimized the CDSS to better address barriers such as lack of provider education, confusion in dosing calculations and titration schedules, access to relevant patient information, provider discontinuity, documentation, and access to validated assessment tools. It also highlighted barriers to good clinical practice that are difficult to address with CDSS technology in its current conceptualization. For example, clinicians indicated that constraints on time and competing priorities in primary care, discomfort in patient-provider communications, and lack of evidence to guide opioid prescribing decisions impeded their ability to provide effective, guideline-adherent pain management. Iterative testing was essential for designing a highly usable and acceptable CDSS; however, identified barriers may limit the impact of the ATHENA-Opioid Therapy system and other CDSS on clinical practices and outcomes unless CDSS are paired with parallel initiatives to address these issues. [source] Usability and effectiveness evaluation of a course-advising chat botPROCEEDINGS OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR INFORMATION SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY (ELECTRONIC), Issue 1 2007Hyekyung Kim This research compares the usability and efficiency of a course-advising chat bot with menu driven FAQs (frequently asked questions). Based on a survey and user interviews, a text-based FAQ system was created and compared with a chat bot that was developed to address library and information science (LIS) graduate student course and program related questions. The students conducted tasks with both the chat bot and FAQ systems. The usability and effectiveness of the functionality and user-interface of both systems is assessed. [source] Testing Usability of Butylated Hydroxytoluene in Conservation of Goat SemenREPRODUCTION IN DOMESTIC ANIMALS, Issue 5 2008TAA Khalifa Contents The objective of this study was to investigate whether butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) could be used as a suitable supporter or alternative of egg yolk during preservation of goat spermatozoa. Three in vitro experiments and a fertility test were conducted to evaluate the effect of BHT on viability of chilled-stored semen as well as motility and kidding rate of frozen-thawed spermatozoa. In the first two experiments, ejaculates (n = 30/experiment) were collected from 10 bucks, split, diluted with egg yolk-based and egg yolk-free extenders supplemented with or without 0.3, 0.6, 2, 5 and 8 mm BHT and stored at 5°C for 168 h. In the third experiment, 30 ejaculates were collected from the above-mentioned bucks, split and diluted with egg yolk-free extenders supplemented with or without 0.3, 0.6 and 0.9 mm BHT and egg yolk-based extenders supplemented with or without 5 mm BHT. Diluted semen was cooled to 5°C over a period of 4 h, frozen and thawed in the form of 0.3-ml pellets. In the fertility test, 75 ejaculates were collected from two proven fertile bucks, split, diluted with egg yolk-free extenders containing 0.6 mm BHT and egg yolk-based extenders supplemented with or without 5 mm BHT, frozen and thawed as described above. An insemination volume of 0.6 ml containing 120,140 × 106 progressively motile spermatozoa was used for a single cervical insemination of cloprostenol-synchronized does (n = 230). The results showed that addition of 5 mm BHT to egg yolk-deficient (2.5%) extenders significantly improved viability of chilled-stored semen together with motility (48.5%) and fertility (62.5%) of frozen-thawed spermatozoa. Replacement of egg yolk in semen extenders by 0.6 mm BHT could sustain not only viability of chilled-stored semen but also post-thaw motility (47.5%) and fertility (53.75%) of frozen-thawed spermatozoa. In conclusion, supplementation of semen diluents with BHT can ameliorate preservability of goat sperm. [source] Usability and Safety of Ventricular Assist Devices: Human Factors and Design AspectsARTIFICIAL ORGANS, Issue 9 2009Lorenz Geidl Abstract The purpose of this study was the investigation of the usability and ergonomics of ventricular assist devices (VADs) in everyday usage. Patients with four different VAD types were observed. After implantation, instruction, and discharge from the hospital, the patients returned on a regular basis to the outpatient clinic, where the investigation took place. Data collection took place in two phases. In phase I home-released VAD patients were asked about perceived problems with the system at home. Additionally health-care professionals were interviewed to gather information on frequent VAD inconveniences and shortcomings. This inquiry resulted in a standardized self-assessment questionnaire and a manual skill test, which were performed in phase II by the whole collective (16 patients and ongoing). As a result, 38% of the patients disconnected parts of their system unintentionally at least once. All of them ascribed this problem to their own carelessness. Thirty-eight percent had to replace a cable. Seventy-five percent desired an additional cable strain relief. Thirty-eight percent suffered from rubbing of parts on the body. Sixty-three percent used a separate repository aside from the factory-provided transportation systems. The overall noise emission (pump, ventilators, and alarms) annoyed 56%; however, for 32% the alarm signals were too quiet to wake them up. No correlation between the assessed manual skills and the number of adverse events was found. To conclude, this preliminary study revealed considerable potential for improvements in the usability of ventricular assist systems. [source] Implant Technology and UsabilityARTIFICIAL ORGANS, Issue 8 2008Paul M. Meadows Abstract:, Implanted electrical stimulation technology has changed greatly in the roughly five decades of its existence. Many factors determine the viability of the technology and whether the systems and products developed ultimately go on to help the target patient population. This article describes the successful introduction of an implanted system and the challenges to implanted system development, acceptance, and usability of these systems by the patient and clinical communities. [source] Usability in space science instrumentationASTRONOMY & GEOPHYSICS, Issue 6 2009Article first published online: 23 NOV 200 The scientists who will eventually use data from a space instrument may not be the most important people to consider during the development programme, argues Alec McCalden. Better results could come from treating instrument usability as a design parameter from the start. [source] Cultural Usability in Digital LibrariesBULLETIN OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR INFORMATION SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY (ELECTRONIC), Issue 4 2000Elke Duncker No abstract is available for this article. [source] Automatic Creation of Object Hierarchies for Radiosity ClusteringCOMPUTER GRAPHICS FORUM, Issue 4 2000Gordon Müller Using object clusters for hierarchical radiosity greatly improves the efficiency and thus usability of radiosity computations. By eliminating the quadratic starting phase very large scenes containing about 100k polygons can be handled efficiently. Although the main algorithm extends rather easily to using object clusters, the creation of ,good' object hierarchies is a difficult task both in terms of construction time and in the way how surfaces or objects are grouped to clusters. The quality of an object hierarchy for clustering depends on its ability to accurately simulate the hierarchy of the energy flow in a given scene. Additionally it should support visibility computations by providing efficient ray acceleration techniques. In this paper we will present a new approach of building hierarchies of object clusters. Our hybrid structuring algorithm provides accuracy and speed by combining a highly optimized bounding volume hierarchy together with uniform spatial subdivisions for nodes with regular object densities. The algorithm works without user intervention and is well suited for a wide variety of scenes. First results of using these hierarchies in a radiosity clustering environment are very promising and will be presented here. The combination of very deep hierarchies (we use a binary tree) together with an efficient ray acceleration structure shifts the computational effort away from form factor and visibility calculation towards accurately propagating the energy through the hierarchy. We will show how an efficient single pass gathering can be used to minimize traversal costs. [source] Direct Manipulation and Interactive Sculpting of PDE SurfacesCOMPUTER GRAPHICS FORUM, Issue 3 2000Haixia Du This paper presents an integrated approach and a unified algorithm that combine the benefits of PDE surfaces and powerful physics-based modeling techniques within one single modeling framework, in order to realize the full potential of PDE surfaces. We have developed a novel system that allows direct manipulation and interactive sculpting of PDE surfaces at arbitrary location, hence supporting various interactive techniques beyond the conventional boundary control. Our prototype software affords users to interactively modify point, normal, curvature, and arbitrary region of PDE surfaces in a predictable way. We employ several simple, yet effective numerical techniques including the finite-difference discretization of the PDE surface, the multigrid-like subdivision on the PDE surface, the mass-spring approximation of the elastic PDE surface, etc. to achieve real-time performance. In addition, our dynamic PDE surfaces can also be approximated using standard bivariate B-spline finite elements, which can subsequently be sculpted and deformed directly in real-time subject to intrinsic PDE constraints. Our experiments demonstrate many attractive advantages of our dynamic PDE formulation such as intuitive control, real-time feedback, and usability to the general public. [source] A comparison of using Taverna and BPEL in building scientific workflows: the case of caGridCONCURRENCY AND COMPUTATION: PRACTICE & EXPERIENCE, Issue 9 2010Wei Tan Abstract When the emergence of ,service-oriented science,' the need arises to orchestrate multiple services to facilitate scientific investigation,that is, to create ,science workflows.' We present here our findings in providing a workflow solution for the caGrid service-based grid infrastructure. We choose BPEL and Taverna as candidates, and compare their usability in the lifecycle of a scientific workflow, including workflow composition, execution, and result analysis. Our experience shows that BPEL as an imperative language offers a comprehensive set of modeling primitives for workflows of all flavors; whereas Taverna offers a dataflow model and a more compact set of primitives that facilitates dataflow modeling and pipelined execution. We hope that this comparison study not only helps researchers to select a language or tool that meets their specific needs, but also offers some insight into how a workflow language and tool can fulfill the requirement of the scientific community. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Towards virtualized desktop environmentCONCURRENCY AND COMPUTATION: PRACTICE & EXPERIENCE, Issue 4 2010Xiaofei Liao Abstract Virtualization is being widely used now as an emerging trend. Rapid improvements in network bandwidth, ubiquitous security hazards and high total cost of ownership of personal computers have created a growing market for desktop virtualization. Much like server virtualization, virtualizing desktops involves separating the physical location of a client device from its logical interface. But, the performance and usability of some traditional desktop frameworks do not satisfy end-users. Other solutions, including WebOS, which needs to rebuild all daily-used applications into Client/Server mode, cannot be easily accepted by people in a short time. We present LVD, a system that combines the virtualization technology and inexpensive personal computers (PCs) to realize a lightweight virtual desktop system. Comparing to the previous desktop systems, LVD builds an integrated novel desktop environment, which can support the backup, mobility, suspending and resuming of per-user's working environment, and support synchronous using of incompatible applications on different platforms and achieves great saving in power consumption. We have implemented LVD in a cluster with Xen and compared its performance against widely used commercial approaches, including Microsoft RDP, Citrix MetaFrameXP and Sun Ray. Experimental results demonstrate that LVD is effective in performing the functions while imposing little overhead. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] TRIBLER: a social-based peer-to-peer systemCONCURRENCY AND COMPUTATION: PRACTICE & EXPERIENCE, Issue 2 2008J. A. Pouwelse Abstract Most current peer-to-peer (P2P) file-sharing systems treat their users as anonymous, unrelated entities, and completely disregard any social relationships between them. However, social phenomena such as friendship and the existence of communities of users with similar tastes or interests may well be exploited in such systems in order to increase their usability and performance. In this paper we present a novel social-based P2P file-sharing paradigm that exploits social phenomena by maintaining social networks and using these in content discovery, content recommendation, and downloading. Based on this paradigm's main concepts such as taste buddies and friends, we have designed and implemented the TRIBLER P2P file-sharing system as a set of extensions to BitTorrent. We present and discuss the design of TRIBLER, and we show evidence that TRIBLER enables fast content discovery and recommendation at a low additional overhead, and a significant improvement in download performance. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Clinical Information Systems: Instant Ubiquitous Clinical Data for Error Reduction and Improved Clinical OutcomesACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE, Issue 11 2004Craig F. Feied MD Abstract Immediate access to existing clinical information is inadequate in current medical practice; lack of existing information causes or contributes to many classes of medical error, including diagnostic and treatment error. A review of the literature finds ample evidence to support a description of the problems caused by data that are missing or unavailable but little evidence to support one proposed solution over another. A primary recommendation of the Consensus Committee is that hospitals and departments should adopt systems that provide fast, ubiquitous, and unified access to all types of existing data. Additional recommendations cover a variety of related functions and operational concepts, from backups and biosurveillance to speed, training, and usability. [source] An immunity network with provision for diverse recognition in T-cell receptorsELECTRONICS & COMMUNICATIONS IN JAPAN, Issue 10 2009Takayuki Yamaguchi Abstract Recently, biological superior information processing ability has been researched to be able to be useful for a computer system. In particular, neural networks for the brain and nervous system have been researched. Immunity network models based on the biological immune response network also have been studied, but most of the researchers consider only a basic part of the interaction between B cells and T cells. Recent research has reported that the function of T cell receptors (TCR) is important in the practical immune response network. Therefore, we propose a new immunity network model which, unlike the traditional immunity networks, has the same function as that of a TCR. We applied the proposed immunity network model and the traditional immunity network model to the pattern recognition system. And we compared the performance of the proposed immunity network model with the traditional immunity network model, and showed the usability of the proposed immunity network model. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 92(10): 41,48, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.10040 [source] The role of indicators in improving timeliness of international environmental reportsENVIRONMENTAL POLICY AND GOVERNANCE, Issue 1 2006Ulla Rosenström Abstract Environmental indicators were developed mainly to improve information flows from scientists to policy-makers. This article discusses the importance of timely environmental data and investigates the influence of indicator-based reporting on the data timeliness of environmental reports by international organizations. Timeliness of information contributes to the quality and appeal of the reports, and to their role as early warning tools, and increases their usability by decision-makers in short-term decision cycles. The results of an analysis of 11 international reports by the European Environmental Agency (EEA) and the Organization for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD) show a considerable time lag of three years on average, with only minor development towards more timely reporting. The results suggest that the introduction of environmental indicators has not improved the timeliness of reporting. In order to overcome these problems, the article recommends some methods for improving timeliness. These include better choice of indicators in smaller sets, use of preliminary data and outlooks, development of new indicators, publishing on the internet and more effective use of internet databases to avoid intermediate levels in data collection. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment. [source] Waste management modeling with PC-based model , EASEWASTEENVIRONMENTAL PROGRESS & SUSTAINABLE ENERGY, Issue 1 2008Gurbakhash S. Bhander Abstract As life-cycle-thinking becomes more integrated into waste management, quantitative tools are needed for assessing waste management systems and technologies. This article presents a decision support model to deal with integrated solid waste management planning problems at a regional or national level. The model is called EASEWASTE (environmental assessment of solid waste systems and technologies). The model consists of a number of modules (submodels), each describing a process in a real waste management system, and these modules may combine to represent a complete waste management system in a scenario. EASEWASTE generates data on emissions (inventory), which are translated and aggregated into different environmental impact categories, e.g. the global warming, acidification, and toxicity. To facilitate a "first level" screening evaluation, default values for process parameters have been provided, wherever possible. The EASEWASTE model for life-cycle-assessment of waste management is described and applied to a case study for illustrative purposes. The case study involving hypothetical but realistic data demonstrates the functionality, usability, and flexibilities of the model. The design and implementation of the software successfully address the substantial challenges in integrating process modeling, life-cycle inventory (LCI), and impact assessment (LCIA) modeling, and optimization into an interactive decision support platform. © 2008 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 2008 [source] Simulation of patient encounters using a virtual patient in periodontology instruction of dental students: design, usability, and learning effect in history-taking skillsEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF DENTAL EDUCATION, Issue 3 2004M. Schittek Janda Simulations are important educational tools in the development of health care competence. This study describes a virtual learning environment (VLE) for diagnosis and treatment planning in oral health care. The VLE is a web-based, database application where the learner uses free text communication on the screen to interact with patient data. The VLE contains forms for history taking, clinical images, clinical data and X-rays. After reviewing the patient information, the student proposes therapy and makes prognostic evaluations of the case in free text. A usability test of the application was performed with seven dental students. The usability test showed that the software responded with correct answers to the majority of the free text questions. The application is generic in its basic functions and can be adapted to other dental or medical subject areas. A randomised controlled trial was carried out with 39 students who attended instruction in history taking with problem-based learning cases, lectures and seminars. In addition, 16 of the 39 students were randomly chosen to practise history taking using the virtual patient prior to their first patient encounter. The performance of each student was recorded on video during the patient sessions. The type and order of the questions asked by the student and the degree of empathy displayed towards the patient were analysed systematically on the videos. The data indicate that students who also undertook history taking with a virtual patient asked more relevant questions, spent more time on patient issues, and performed a more complete history interview compared with students who had only undergone standard teaching. The students who had worked with the virtual patient also seemed to have more empathy for the patients than the students who had not. The practising of history taking with a virtual patient appears to improve the capability of dental students to take a relevant oral health history. [source] Green tea extract reduces induction of p53 and apoptosis in UVB-irradiated human skin independent of transcriptional controlsEXPERIMENTAL DERMATOLOGY, Issue 1 2009Christian D. Mnich Abstract:, Ultraviolet (UV) irradiation plays a pivotal role in human skin carcinongenesis. Preclinically, systemically and topically applied green tea extract (GTE) has shown reduction of UV-induced (i) erythema, (ii) DNA damage, (iii) formation of radical oxygen species and (iv) downregulation of numerous factors related to apoptosis, inflammation, differentiation and carcinogenesis. In humans, topical GTE has so far only been tested in limited studies, with usually very high GTE concentrations and over short periods of time. Both chemical stability of GTE and staining properties of highly concentrated green tea polyphenols limit the usability of highly concentrated green tea extracts in cosmetic products. The present study tested the utility of stabilized low-dose GTE as photochemopreventive agents under everyday conditions. We irradiated with up to 100 mJ/cm2 of UVB light skin patches which were pretreated with either OM24® -containing lotion or a placebo lotion. Biopsies were taken from both irradiated and un-irradiated skin for both immunohistochemistry and DNA microarray analysis. We found that while OM24® treatment did not significantly affect UV-induced erythema and thymidine dimer formation, OM24® treatment significantly reduced UV-induced p53 expression in keratinocytes. We also found that OM24® treatment significantly reduced the number of apoptotic keratinocytes (sunburn cells and TUNEL-positive cells). Carefully controlled DNA microarray analyses showed that OM24® treatment does not induce off-target changes in gene expression, reducing the likelihood of unwanted side-effects. Topical GTE (OM24®) reduces UVB-mediated epithelial damage already at low, cosmetically usable concentrations, without tachyphylaxis over 5 weeks, suggesting GTE as suitable everyday photochemopreventive agents. [source] Semi-purification of the immunoglobulin E-sweat antigen acting on mast cells and basophils in atopic dermatitisEXPERIMENTAL DERMATOLOGY, Issue 4 2006A. Tanaka Background:, Sweating aggravates the symptoms of atopic dermatitis (AD). We have recently reported positive skin reactions and histamine release from basophils in response to autologous sweat in patients with AD. Objective:, To characterize the biochemical and immunological properties of the substance in sweat that evokes histamine release and to study the usability of the basophil-histamine release test with the sweat antigen for AD. Methods:, Sweat collected from healthy volunteers was purified using chromatographies. Serum immunoglobulin (Ig)E of four patients with AD were purified using an affinity-chromatography column with anti-IgE antibodies. The amount of semi-purified sweat antigen (138 ng protein/ml) that induced a half-maximum reaction of basophils of a patient with AD was utilized for the basophil histamine release test. The involvement of specific IgE and high-affinity IgE receptor (Fc,RI) in the reactions was examined using basophils of healthy volunteers, a human mast cell line (LAD2), and a rat basophilic leukemia cell line transfected with human ,-subunit of Fc,RI (RBL-48). Results:, The semi-purified sweat antigen induced histamine release from the basophils of 47 of 61 (74.6%) patients with AD and four of 46 (8.7%) healthy controls. Both basophils and mast cells sensitized with the patient-derived IgE showed degranulation upon stimulation with the sweat antigen. However, no reaction was observed when cells were sensitized with myeloma IgE or the antigen was treated with proteases. Conclusion:, The semi-purified standardized sweat antigen consists of a protein that induces degranulation of basophils and mast cells via antigen-specific IgE and Fc,RI in patients with AD. [source] Intelligent interaction design: the role of human-computer interaction research in the design of intelligent systemsEXPERT SYSTEMS, Issue 1 2001Ann BlandfordArticle first published online: 16 DEC 200 As more intelligent systems are introduced into the marketplace, it is becoming increasingly urgent to consider usability for such systems. Historically, the two fields of artificial intelligence (AI) and human- computer interaction (HCI) have had little in common. In this paper, we consider how established HCI techniques can usefully be applied to the design and evaluation of intelligent systems, and where there is an urgent need for new approaches. Some techniques - notably those for requirements acquisition and empirical evaluation - can usefully be adopted, and indeed are, within many projects. However, many of the tools and techniques developed within HCI to support design and theory-based evaluation cannot be applied in their present forms to intelligent systems because they are based on inappropriate assumptions; there is consequently a need for new approaches. Conversely, there are approaches that have been developed within AI - e.g. in research on dialogue and on ontologies - that could usefully be adapted and encapsulated to respond to this need. These should form the core of a future research agenda for intelligent interaction design. [source] Wet and Dry Adhesion Properties of Self-Selective Nanowire ConnectorsADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, Issue 19 2009Hyunhyub Ko Abstract Here, the wet and dry adhesion properties of hybrid Ge/parylene nanowire (NW) connectors are examined. The ability of the NW connectors to bind strongly even under lubricating conditions, such as mineral oil, sheds light on the dominant role of van der Waals interactions in the observed adhesion. The superhydrophobic surface of the NW connectors enables the wet, self-cleaning of contaminant particles from the surface, similar to the lotus effect. In addition, the effect of NW length on the shear adhesion strength, repeated usability, and robustness of the connectors, all critical properties for applications that require reversible binding of components, is examined. [source] Application of Six Sigma Methods for Improving the Analytical Data Management Process in the Environmental IndustryGROUND WATER MONITORING & REMEDIATION, Issue 2 2006Christopher M. French Honeywell applied the rigorous and well-documented Six Sigma quality-improvement approach to the complex, highly heterogeneous, and mission-critical process of remedial site environmental data management to achieve a sea change in terms of data quality, environmental risk reduction, and overall process cost reduction. The primary focus was to apply both qualitative and quantitative Six Sigma methods to improve electronic management of analytical laboratory data generated for environmental remediation and long-term monitoring programs. The process includes electronic data delivery, data QA/QC checking, data verification, data validation, database administration, regulatory agency reporting and linkage to spatial information, and real-time geographical information systems. Results of the analysis identified that automated, centralized web-based software tools delivered through Software as a Service (SaaS) model are optimal to improve the process resulting in cost reductions, while simultaneously improving data quality and long-term data usability and perseverance. A pilot project was completed that quantified cycle time and cost improvements of 50% and 65%, respectively. [source] The attitudes of health care staff to information technology: a comprehensive review of the research literatureHEALTH INFORMATION & LIBRARIES JOURNAL, Issue 2 2008Rod Ward Objectives:, What does the publicly available literature tell us about the attitudes of health care staff to the development of information technology in practice, including the factors which influence them and the factors which may be used to change these attitudes? Methods:, Twelve databases were searched for literature published between 2000 and 2005 that identified research related to information technology (IT), health professionals and attitude. English language studies were included which described primary research relating to the attitudes of one or more health care staff groups towards IT. Letters, personal viewpoints, reflections and opinion pieces were not included. Results:, Complex factors contribute to the formation of attitudes towards IT. Many of the issues identified were around the flexibility of the systems and whether they were ,fit for purpose', along with the confidence and experience of the IT users. The literature suggests that attitudes of practitioners are a significant factor in the acceptance and efficiency of use of IT in practice. The literature also suggested that education and training was a factor for encouraging the use of IT systems. Conclusions:, A range of key issues, such as the need for flexibility and usability, appropriate education and training and the need for the software to be ,fit for purpose', showed that organizations need to plan carefully when proposing the introduction of IT-based systems into work practices. The studies reviewed did suggest that attitudes of health care professionals can be a significant factor in the acceptance and efficiency of use of IT in practice. Further qualitative and quantitative research is needed into the approaches that have most effect on the attitudes of health care staff towards IT. [source] Evaluation of automated brain MR image segmentation and volumetry methodsHUMAN BRAIN MAPPING, Issue 4 2009Frederick Klauschen Abstract We compare three widely used brain volumetry methods available in the software packages FSL, SPM5, and FreeSurfer and evaluate their performance using simulated and real MR brain data sets. We analyze the accuracy of gray and white matter volume measurements and their robustness against changes of image quality using the BrainWeb MRI database. These images are based on "gold-standard" reference brain templates. This allows us to assess between- (same data set, different method) and also within-segmenter (same method, variation of image quality) comparability, for both of which we find pronounced variations in segmentation results for gray and white matter volumes. The calculated volumes deviate up to >10% from the reference values for gray and white matter depending on method and image quality. Sensitivity is best for SPM5, volumetric accuracy for gray and white matter was similar in SPM5 and FSL and better than in FreeSurfer. FSL showed the highest stability for white (<5%), FreeSurfer (6.2%) for gray matter for constant image quality BrainWeb data. Between-segmenter comparisons show discrepancies of up to >20% for the simulated data and 24% on average for the real data sets, whereas within-method performance analysis uncovered volume differences of up to >15%. Since the discrepancies between results reach the same order of magnitude as volume changes observed in disease, these effects limit the usability of the segmentation methods for following volume changes in individual patients over time and should be taken into account during the planning and analysis of brain volume studies. Hum Brain Mapp, 2009. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Design for usability on supply chain management systems implementationHUMAN FACTORS AND ERGONOMICS IN MANUFACTURING & SERVICE INDUSTRIES, Issue 5 2009Chao-Hsien Lin Supply chain management (SCM) systems implementation has become a fashion due to advances in information technology and pressures of market competition. Unfortunately, successful implementation was rare. In this article, the concept of usability was extended in an explorative case study to crystallize design for usability (DFU) principles in a large-scale SCM systems implementation project at a leading semiconductor manufacturing company in Taiwan. Proposed was a holistic usability framework to guide the analysis of DFU as well as the compilation of an evidence database composed of design documentation, post hoc evaluation, semistructured interviews, and participant observation. This research revealed a set of usability needs and coping strategies found throughout a series of systems design and redesign processes at the case company. As a result, an emergent usability framework in the form of ICOM (Input, Control, Output, and Mechanism) dimensions was proposed to guide the implementation of SCM systems. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [source] Adaptive interaction in a 3D product structure browsing system for maintenance trainingHUMAN FACTORS AND ERGONOMICS IN MANUFACTURING & SERVICE INDUSTRIES, Issue 1 2008Wei Dong The traditional maintenance training method with a physical model of the product is costly and inconvenient. Computer-aided instruction (CAI) technology along with multimedia can provide much help in the training but provides limited interaction between the user and the system. In this article, a 3D model-based product structure browsing system for maintenance training, CAMT, is developed for complex products adopting desktop virtual reality technology. To improve training performance, the interaction between the trainee and the CAMT system is enhanced by adaptive change of the zoom level, mouse sensitivity, and rotation origin. Details about the implementation of adaptive interaction are discussed. Experiments were conducted to test the effectiveness of this adaptive interaction. Seventy participants were arranged randomly into two groups assigned to perform product structure learning tasks using software with or without adaptive interaction functions. Statistical analysis showed that there were significant differences between the groups in task time, operation convenience, and learning satisfaction. Most participants preferred to use the system with adaptive interaction. It may be concluded that using adaptive interaction with maintenance training systems can significantly improve the usability of the systems and the efficiency of interactive learning. Although adaptive interaction has obvious advantages, our experiment also suggested that it is not a good idea to provide only the adaptive interaction mode. It is better to set adaptive interaction as the default mode but also to provide the possibility for a user to switch to a mode without adaptive interaction because a static view scope is also helpful to learn the 3D structure of a complex product. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [source] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||